HMOH DIY #721: chalk it up to a great table card display

I was inspired to be DIY crafty - of course, electronically for now since I haven't had the time to put a pencil to the paper, or in this case some chalk to the board.

I came across this cuteness from Shugabee Lane on Etsy.com - a great way to display your table cards for wedding guests ... or even post photos in your apartment.  I loved the vintage but clean look of it ... and challenge anyone to turn this into their own DIY.  If not, there's always the "Add to Cart" button.

• Magnetic Chalkboard Paint OR Magnetic Primer Paint and Base Coat Color
• 32x40 mirror with vintage inspired frame (going to have to get your shop on)
• Buttons (b/w)
• Acrylic Paint
• Magnet strips
• Hot glue gun/sticks

*I'd imagine.

1. At first I wanted to suggest that you pick out a magnetic chalkboard and go buy it.  But then I realized that chalkboard paint ... can be MAGNETIC.  So go ahead and get yourself a can of this; but make sure you can stick magnets to it and that it can be applied to glass.  An alternative is the magnetic primer which serves as a base coat before applying the color of your choice on top.
2. Take to the streets for fairs, antique shops or flea markets to find a vintage frame or mirror.  You can also check online on Craigs List or Etsy.  For a 32x40 outside and 24x36 inside frame will hold approximately 100 table cards.  
3. Clean the mirror and after a dry surface, paint or spray with chalkboard paint.  If you've bought instead the magnetic primer and base coat, follow instructions from your dude at Home Depot - but paint through your primer and let dry before applying the adequate amount of top coat.  Pay special caution to not drip too much on your frame.
4. Paint/spray the frame an antique white or ivory.  Let dry.
5. On to the buttons ... my mom always had a Stella Dora cookie bin filled with old buttons of any shape, size or color.  If you're not rummaging through old family bins then you can find antique-looking buttons in crafts stores or look to buy in bulk.  You're going to need about a hundred of these bad boys.
6. Apply cut magnet strip to back of button(s) with hot glue gun.  Get crafty, be unique.  Pile up, paint, etc.
7. Wow your guests and then take it home to your newlywed home when you're done.

I'll give credit where credit is due (most of the time) ...  if you're looking for a visual tutorial, check out CensationalGirl's project here.


-HMOH